The opioid crisis continues devastating communities nationwide, with young people increasingly caught in its grip. This age group faces a significant risk, especially if they are not aware of the prevalence of fentanyl in the drug supply. The high call volumes first responders receive about youth opioid overdoses are a red flag warning us all about the scale of this emergency.
A Rising Threat Among Young Men
Opioids – including prescription painkillers, heroin and fentanyl – pose a significant risk of addiction and overdose. Fentanyl is notoriously dangerous due to its extreme potency and its frequent, often undisclosed, presence in street drugs. Young men are especially vulnerable. They may be more likely to take the risk of experimenting with opioids, without fully understanding the potential for contamination with substances like fentanyl.
Recognizing Signs of Opioid Abuse
Identifying opioid abuse early can be crucial for preventing an overdose. Here are some signs a young adult may need help with an opioid addiction.
- Physical symptoms: Noticeable euphoria followed by fatigue, constricted pupils, sudden weight loss and frequent flu-like body aches.
- Behavioral changes: Increased secrecy, withdrawal from social activities, unexplained financial problems or stealing to afford a worsening drug habit.
- Psychological signs: Mood swings, anxiety, irritability or depression.
How to Respond to an Opioid Overdose
An opioid overdose is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Opioids suppress the central nervous system and affect the part of the brain that regulates respiratory function, which can cause users to stop breathing.
Here’s what to do if you suspect someone has taken more drugs than their body can handle.
- Call for help: Immediately call 911. Be precise about your location and the affected person’s condition.
- Administer naloxone if available: Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is a lifesaving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. If you have access to naloxone and know how to use it, administer it as soon as possible.
- Monitor them: If the person falls unconscious, make sure they are still breathing and place them on their side in the recovery position to prevent choking. Continue to monitor them until help arrives. Try to keep them awake and talking if they regain consciousness.
- Follow up: Often, an overdose provides the inspiration necessary to seek specialized, professional addiction treatment. Encourage the person to turn their life around.
Combating the Youth Opioid Crisis Through Awareness and Education
Young adults – particularly young men who may see themselves as invincible – need targeted information about the dangers of fentanyl poisoning and what to do in an emergency. Workshops, recovery programs and naloxone training equip young people with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves and their peers.
The youth opioid overdose crisis remains a significant public health challenge. As a nation, we must work to reduce accidental deaths by understanding the signs of opioid abuse and knowing how to respond to overdoses. PACE Recovery has addressed these challenges since 2012 by giving young men the skills and tools they need to get and stay sober. Our Orange County treatment center serves clients with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders by helping them set goals for change. Contact us to verify your insurance coverage and learn about availability.
